Worker Wins: Taking Back Their Power
Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.
Vestas Wind Techs Vote to Join UWUA: Vestas wind turbine technicians in Michigan voted overwhelmingly on Thursday to join Utility Workers (UWUA) Local 223, becoming the international company’s first technicians in North America to do so. Denmark-based Vestas is the largest wind turbine company globally—these newly minted UWUA members perform routine operations and maintenance on 128 different turbines, including major part replacements. Workers initially contacted the union about organizing, with concerns over work-life balance, training and the company’s safety culture. “These workers took a remarkable step forward to take back their power,” said UWUA National President James Slevin. “They were up against a strong anti-union campaign. The company pulled all the usual stunts to try to get them to vote against this union campaign. We welcome these Vestas wind techs to our membership, and we look forward to addressing their key concerns when we sit down to negotiate their first contract.”
AGMA and Cincinnati Opera Announce New Contract: The American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) and Cincinnati Opera released a joint statement last week announcing the ratification of a new three-year contract. This collective bargaining agreement comes as the opera company is in preparation for its 105th anniversary Summer Festival that will feature the talent of AGMA members onstage and behind the scenes. Highlights of the deal include wage increases, improved workplace protections, new policies addressing core member concerns like artificial intelligence and more. “These negotiations were a testament to the strength and solidarity of the artists of Cincinnati Opera,” said AGMA Counsel Martha Kinsella. “We advocated strongly for meaningful wage increases and achieved the best contractual raises in recent memory. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to our Negotiation Committee, which represented nearly all working groups, for their dedication, strategic thinking, and unwavering advocacy throughout this process.”
Walt Disney Animation Studios Production Workers Ratify Contract: In a vote taken last week, production workers represented by The Animation Guild, IATSE Local 839, officially ratified their first union contract with Walt Disney Animation Studios. The unit covers production coordinators, production supervisors and production managers who first started organizing in 2022—the next year, a supermajority of production workers voted to join TAG. The newly minted contract includes victories like a pension, health care benefits and double-digit increases to minimum wage rates for all job roles. “In Hollywood, we love an underdog story. Our ratification was just that — the underrepresented and underpaid coming together and demanding better pay and equity with our artistic counterparts,” said production supervisor Nicholas Ellingsworth. “In the end, we were heard and seen, and we have a pathway to further improving the conditions in which production management works.”
UAW Members at Ultium Cells Approve Collective Bargaining Agreement: Nearly 1,000 UAW Local 1853 members who work at Ultium Cells in Tennessee voted on Wednesday to ratify their first contract with the electric vehicle (EV) battery manufacturer. A joint venture of General Motors and South Korea's LG Energy Solution, Ultium Cells produces battery cells for EVs at a neighboring assembly plant. The agreement’s highlights include a one-time $3,000 lump sum payment and wages that align with what Ultium Cells workers make at a plant in northeast Ohio, which was the first to unionize. The wages currently start at $26.91 and include increases every year to reach $35 per hour by September 2027. “Ultium workers are setting the bar for Southern workers and charting a brighter future,” said UAW Region 8 Director Tim Smith. “From Georgia to Kentucky to Texas, folks in these new EV plants know they deserve fair pay and benefits, just like union workers before them. And you can bet the UAW is going to stand with them to make sure they get their fair share and a collective voice on the job."
Court Rules Trump’s Firing of NLRB Member Illegal: A federal District Court in Washington, D.C., ruled on Thursday that President Trump acted illegally when he suddenly terminated National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) member Gwynne Wilcox. Judge Beryl A. Howell ordered her to be reinstated to the independent agency tasked with protecting the rights of working people to organize unions. “The court also sent an important message that a president cannot undermine an independent agency by simply removing a member of the board because he disagrees with her decisions,” said AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler. “Working people around the country count on equal justice and fair decision-making from an independent NLRB—and today, because of Wilcox’s commitment to the mission of the NLRB and her refusal to stand by as Trump illegally removed her from the board, the NLRB can get back to work.” Read AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler’s full statement here.
Barnes & Noble Workers Win Historic Union Contracts: On Thursday, Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union-UFCW (RWDSU-UFCW) members announced that they have successfully ratified historic, first-in-the-nation collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) at three New York City Barnes & Noble stores. These new contracts collectively cover more than 200 workers, including staff at the Flagship Union Square store located below the Barnes & Noble corporate headquarters. A central focus for members of the Barnes & Noble Union during negotiations was workplace safety—the union was also active in lobbying for the passage of the Retail Worker Safety Act. Highlights of the CBAs include wages increases, RWDSU-UFCW union health care coverage, language requiring de-escalation training and late night transportation, layoff protections, and more. “Workers at Barnes & Noble should be incredibly proud of what they’ve accomplished together in these historic first union contracts,” said RWDSU-UFCW President Stuart Appelbaum. “United in their fight for increased safety in their stores, it was their voices among others across our union that won increased protections for everyone in the industry through the Retail Worker Safety Act. Today, we can finally say those safety protections are codified in their union contracts, which also include industry standard setting wage increases, union healthcare, and more. A union is the only way to ensure workplace protections are secure—especially now, while laws protecting workers are under attack.”
Gannett Journalists Win Tentative Two-Year Contract Deals: After three years of bargaining and a walkout pledge, journalists represented by The NewsGuild of New York, CWA Local 31003, at six of the largest Gannett-owned papers in New Jersey and New York have reached tentative agreements. The APP-MCJ Guild and the Hudson Valley News Guild bargained separately but have been coordinating closely to secure victories for all the covered newsrooms. Wins include life-changing wage increases, strong salary floors, artificial intelligence guardrails, just cause provisions and more. “This agreement is a testament to their strength, tenacity and solidarity and should serve as proof-positive for other Gannett newsrooms, who should stop asking nicely and start using their collective power to demand what they deserve,” said Asbury Park Press reporter Mike Davis, acting unit chair of the APP-MCJ Guild. “We fought for Gannett to invest in our communities, and in us,” said Journal News reporter Nancy Cutler, acting unit chair of the Hudson Valley News Guild. “And we won.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/11/2025 - 13:07Tags: Organizing
Get Organized: What Working People Are Doing This Week
Welcome to our regular feature, a look at what the various AFL-CIO unions and other working family organizations are doing across the country and beyond. The labor movement is big and active—here's a look at the broad range of activities we're engaged in this week.
Actors' Equity:
Bravo to Executive Director @avincentjr on being recognized for his dedication to advocating for our members in @PoliticsNYnews 2025 Labor Power Players list. Check out the impressive list of labor leaders and advocates who made it this year. https://t.co/qzd9pbyNcy pic.twitter.com/qHnyavBELc
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) March 12, 2025
AFGE:
Our union is speaking out against cuts to education that will harm American children and school across the nation. pic.twitter.com/0CKD968Nex
— AFGE (@AFGENational) March 11, 2025
AFSCME:
AFSCME stands in solidarity with @AFGENational and the 47,000 unionized TSA agents whose freedom to collectively bargain is under assault. This attack jeopardizes public safety.
Together, with AFGE and the labor movement, we will keep fighting back. https://t.co/6zNOeyTmLd
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) March 12, 2025
Alliance for Retired Americans:
Social Security does not contribute one penny to the national deficit. Republicans shouldn't be looking for "savings" by messing with Americans' earned benefits. https://t.co/ze1MsUtDtn
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) March 11, 2025
Amalgamated Transit Union:
Our Local 770-Mobile, AL, mobilized to make their voices and demands heard. #ATUStrongerTogether https://t.co/PZsQUN4VnC
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) March 12, 2025
American Federation of Musicians:
News of the Trump Administration’s misguided trade war must remind us of our values and our mission. All musicians have the right to live and work in dignity. At every level of governance, the American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada remains committed to… pic.twitter.com/Tbd0DpSUso
— AFM (@The_AFM) March 5, 2025
American Federation of Teachers:
The Trump administration is making changes to the #PSLF system. Thank you @washingtonpost for this helpful breakdown.
📰 https://t.co/JRTG1VanoT pic.twitter.com/LXFeeSlXji
— AFT (@AFTunion) March 12, 2025
American Postal Workers Union:
Join us on our March 20 Day of Action as we make it clear to the country that the U.S Mail is Not For Sale!
📍Find an event near you! ➡️ https://t.co/SoZlz9HBsK https://t.co/Z5PoySKrCc
— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) March 10, 2025
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
.@AFGENational TSA officers know security best — our country is safer when they have a seat at the table to bargain for economic security and improvements to the job. This is just another attempt to pull apart the government every way they can. https://t.co/semwtG7poZ
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) March 7, 2025
Boilermakers:
Community service is an excellent way for #Boilermakers locals to give back and boost their PR. See how L-146 helped out at WIN House: https://t.co/LcNgIdEPNZ pic.twitter.com/OSChhtcXu0
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) March 10, 2025
Bricklayers:
Is your company providing proper ladder safety training?
Join the webinars provided by @American_Ladder to learn about the ladder safety standards and master essential ladder safety skills: https://t.co/kTNJF6NQZc#LadderSafetyMonth pic.twitter.com/RKCdTNgIou
— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) March 12, 2025
Communications Workers of America:
CWA condemns Trump admin’s termination of TSA collective bargaining agreement.
This illegal action puts the safety of the American public at risk, including 80K CWA members who work in the aviation industry as Flight Attendants & Passenger Service Agentshttps://t.co/Ks1IlgnLCV
— CWA (@CWAUnion) March 7, 2025
Department for Professional Employees:
"We now have stools at the registers, locked-in raises and increased rates of pay for positions for three years, and an excellent healthcare package through the RWDSU for our booksellers and baristas that we are very excited about." https://t.co/LT56jcuU1n
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) March 11, 2025
Electrical Workers:
Sam Taylor founded Taylor Electric Co. in 1922, one of the oldest black-owned businesses in the U.S. Taylor and a group of Black electricians first joined the #IBEW as less-than-full members before a pressure campaign helped them gain full membership. https://t.co/YlWbBivuf4 pic.twitter.com/yGip7STT0R
— IBEW (@IBEW) March 11, 2025
Heat and Frost Insulators:
Celebrating on 125 Years! 🎉
Members of Local 17 along with our International's leadership members, including General President Terry Larkin, gathered to celebrate 125 years of history, solidarity, & what it means to be a part of Local 17.
Local 17’s Business Manager Tom McGrath… pic.twitter.com/ZmAts52ZuD
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) March 11, 2025
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
📣 LCLAA National President, Evelyn DeJesus, and members of the LCLAA DC Metro Chapter proudly joined the opening of "Stories of Belonging", a powerful photo exhibing showcasing the struggles of tepesianos (TPS holders) in their fight for justice pic.twitter.com/z2FzmD2grf
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) March 12, 2025
Labor Heritage Foundation:
🎭 This Week’s Labor Arts Calendar just posted!
📅 Tue: NoVA Arts Union Caucus
🎤 Wed: Labor's Partisans & BVOCAL
🎶 Thu: Labor Heritage Power Hour
📚 Fri: The Road to Rights: Domestic Workers & New Labor Activism
🎬 Sun: Made In Ethiopia
🔗 More info: https://t.co/5xK0MAWAEB pic.twitter.com/5hNEuJHWDP
— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) March 10, 2025
Laborers:
From strategy sessions at HQ to powerful advocacy on the Hill, LIUNA Public Employees & Non-Construction (#PENC) leaders made their voices heard in DC last week.
They met with Members of Congress to push for the PRO Act, Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act, Service Contract… pic.twitter.com/wS4gaOivf6
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) March 11, 2025
Machinists:
The @IAMW3Center hosted another lunch for local veterans, as they often have done for several years, providing a social outing for the veterans. Members and W3 staff are honored to sit with the veterans to break bread and chat. ⚙️❤️ #IAMcaring https://t.co/Z7zoRRzyS9
— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) March 9, 2025
Maritime Trades Department:
https://t.co/173YlFsyPT
MTD Backs New Pro-Maritime Legislation
— Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO (@Maritime_Trades) March 12, 2025
Mine Workers:
On January 16, 2025, President Roberts announced to the International Executive Board that he would be retiring at the close of the International Special Convention that will be held in October, 2025, in St. Louis, Missouri.https://t.co/yvaqn7tMIw
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) March 11, 2025
National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
Today, NATCA issued a press release calling on Congress to act now to pass a funding resolution and avoid a government shutdown: https://t.co/A0XIsg8muF#GovernmentShutdown #FederalWorkers #SafetyFirst #AviationSafety pic.twitter.com/XW0ESJlizi
— NATCA (@NATCA) March 12, 2025
National Association of Letter Carriers:
On March 23, we’re putting this fight on the MAP! Join letter carriers across the nation as we #fightlikehell for the universal service Americans rely on.
📢 We’re delivering our message, loud & clear: #HELLNO to dismantling USPS!
Find your local rally ➡️… pic.twitter.com/nYQvUjxCgA
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) March 11, 2025
National Domestic Workers Alliance:
NEW JERSEY: Your knowledge of your rights is your power!
Here's everything you need to know about your #DomesticWorkersBillofRights, which went into effect on July 1, 2024:https://t.co/cCvYKoh960
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) March 11, 2025
National Nurses United:
Trans people have always existed — they are our patients, colleagues, neighbors, family and community members.
They will not be erased, ignored, demonized, or ostracized so long as there are nurses in this country with the hearts to care for them! 🏳️⚧️❤️✊
— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) March 7, 2025
NFL Players Association:
To the players of the UFL: We’ve got your back ✊ pic.twitter.com/0i6Pa2JOwF
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) March 7, 2025
North America's Building Trades Unions:
Big paycheck. Safe job. Better benefits. This is what a union job gets you. pic.twitter.com/9VvCDeeTBN
— The Building Trades (@NABTU) March 12, 2025
Office and Professional Employees:
Congratulations to OPEIU President Tyler Turner on being elected to the @AFLCIO Executive Council. pic.twitter.com/UM1PmqusZk
— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) March 12, 2025
Painters and Allied Trades:
If you look around today, you’ll see the faces of many women who have pioneered in our union and our skilled trades as the firsts.
They have proven for decades that there is no limit to what women in our union can accomplish. pic.twitter.com/EB9j2XCplY
— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) March 12, 2025
Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
Thank you @GerryConnolly for being a champion of federal workforce. Dedicated civil servants are under attack, their work for American people being demeaned. @PASSprezdc Dave Spero proud to stand with you to combat these relentless assaults. #federalemployees #publicservice pic.twitter.com/Wivov8MSuV
— PASS (@PASSNational) March 7, 2025
Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
CONTRACT VICTORY: congrats to @RWDSU Local 262 members in Union, NJ who make Smarties at Ce De Candy on their new 3-year contract! The agreement includes large wage increases and sees the employer picking up between 85-100% of the medical plan costs!https://t.co/NzddJB6H1L
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) March 12, 2025
Roofers and Waterproofers:
Overdoses from opioids are on the rise. Learn about opioid addiction and how to prevent it at: https://t.co/qGkLyFBmK6 #roofersafety365 pic.twitter.com/HwKhDcI8sP
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) March 12, 2025
SAG-AFTRA:
🎮💪 #VideoGameStrike Update: The bargaining group would have you believe that we are close to reaching a deal. This is not the case. They are hoping our members will turn on each other. Read this comparison chart of A.I. proposals: https://t.co/pzZ3CV82jN pic.twitter.com/3QItbnclF3
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) March 12, 2025
Service Employees International Union (SEIU):
“President Trump’s Education Secretary Linda McMahon’s firing of 1,315 Department of Education workers is an all-out attack on our nation's future and will roll back decades of progress to ensure that every student, regardless of race, gender, disability, family income or zip… pic.twitter.com/saNRPzgdhp
— SEIU (@SEIU) March 12, 2025
Solidarity Center:
New way to stay in touch 🦋 ! pic.twitter.com/eW4SrLAuKG
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) March 6, 2025
The NewsGuild-CWA:
NEW: A federal court ruled Trump illegally fired NLRB member Gwynne Wilcox and has ordered her to be reinstated.
The courts are clear: the president isn’t a king, and labor law still matters.https://t.co/BSu6eFF8PT
— The NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) March 6, 2025
Theatrical Stage Employees:
BREAKING: 90 food and beverage employees at The Fillmore Philadelphia have overwhelmingly voted to join IATSE Local B-29!
"For far too long, the hardworking staff taking your tickets, making and serving your drinks, and preparing your food have been treated as replaceable and… pic.twitter.com/RyoGnzEjQY
— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) March 11, 2025
Transport Workers Union:
The TWU’s Future Leaders Organizing Committee is in Washington this week, learning critical arbitration skills and building relationships across all of the TWU’s industrial divisions! pic.twitter.com/nEzzHQKf0D
— TWU (@transportworker) March 12, 2025
Transportation Trades Department:
Thanks for stopping by @CaHSRA! We were thrilled to hear updates about the progress on the largest infrastructure project in the U.S. from CEO Ian Choudri and Chair Tom Richards. pic.twitter.com/XQVscg2GzD
— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) March 11, 2025
UAW:
Workers at the Volkswagen Parts Distribution Center in New Jersey know that there's strength in numbers. That's why they're coming together to demand a voice on the job and to join the 4,000 VW workers in Chattanooga who joined the UAW last year.
"There is a kind of fear in the… pic.twitter.com/ugLRbj8jwy
— UAW (@UAW) March 4, 2025
Union Veterans Council:
The @unionveterans strongly opposes the dismantling of the Dept. of Education. Such actions are an affront to our democracy and threaten the educational opportunities of the most vulnerable among us, including minorities, those in poverty, and individuals with disabilities.
— Union Veterans Council🪖✊ (@unionveterans) March 12, 2025
UNITE HERE:
This weekend, UNITE HERE Secretary-Treasurer Nia Winston and Local 634 President Nicole Hunt traveled to Selma, Alabama,to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Bloody Sunday, a pivotal day in our history when brave individuals marched for voting rights on the Edmund Pettus Bridge. pic.twitter.com/OtHlQI4KOD
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) March 11, 2025
United Association of Union Plumbers and Pipefitters:
United Food and Commercial Workers:
Applications for the Winter quarter of UFCW's Free Foreign Language Program will open on March 20th at 1pm ET.
Be sure to make your calendar, as enrollment is on a first come, first served basis!
Learn more: https://t.co/61IC0Gx1LG pic.twitter.com/ipr2vMof3q
— UFCW (@UFCW) March 11, 2025
United Steelworkers:
Back to Basics: Megan Butler of Local 7600 explains Communication and Action Teams (CATs)—rank-and-file volunteers who keep members informed and engaged. Megan and her local siblings were honored with the Groundwork Award for their work ahead of major bargaining this spring! pic.twitter.com/fTLgk9HXLQ
— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) March 12, 2025
Utility Workers:
🥳 Congratulations to members of @RWDSU who recently ratified their first contract with Barnes and Noble! Over 200 workers now have codified safety protections, industry setting wages, and union health coverage. pic.twitter.com/Ug8gD7CEmg
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) March 12, 2025
Writers Guild of America East:
Take action to support our nearly 100 dedicated @MSNBCUnion members who were recently laid off. These highly skilled professionals are now being forced to endure the humiliating process of reapplying for their own jobs.
Send a letter to @MSNBC mgmt: https://t.co/mrxCX40OfB pic.twitter.com/PbRtNPH8gE
— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) March 12, 2025
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/11/2025 - 12:07Women's History Month Profiles: Helene Brown
For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Helene Brown of the Bricklayers (BAC).
“I began my journey as a tuck pointer in 1999,” said Helene Brown, a member of BAC Administrative District Council 1 of Illinois. “After 26 years of hard work and dedication, I now have the opportunity to share my knowledge and experience as an instructor. Tuck pointing has allowed me to create a life and legacy that myself and my children can be proud of. I am proof that women can excel in a male dominated trade!”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/11/2025 - 10:06Tags: Women's History Month
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Walt Disney Animation Studios Production Workers Ratify Contract
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
In a vote taken last week, production workers represented by The Animation Guild, IATSE Local 839, officially ratified their first union contract with Walt Disney Animation Studios.
The unit covers production coordinators, production supervisors and production managers who first started organizing in 2022—the next year, a supermajority of production workers voted to join TAG. The newly minted contract includes victories like a pension, health care benefits and double-digit increases to minimum wage rates for all job roles.
“In Hollywood, we love an underdog story. Our ratification was just that—the underrepresented and underpaid coming together and demanding better pay and equity with our artistic counterparts,” said production supervisor Nicholas Ellingsworth. “In the end, we were heard and seen, and we have a pathway to further improving the conditions in which production management works.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/11/2025 - 10:03Celebrate Women's History Month: In the States Roundup
It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on X.
Alaska AFL-CIO:
BREAKING NEWS: The U.S. Department of Homeland Security just revoked the right of 47,000 TSA workers to have a union.
An attack on TSA workers is an attack on workers everywhere. The time for sitting on the sidelines is over.
https://t.co/cgTsEfBSxX
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) March 7, 2025
California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
The California Federation of Labor Unions stands in strong solidarity with @APWUnational in opposition to President Trump's plan to privatize the U.S. Postal Service.
The Postal Service belongs to the people, not the billionaires. U.S. mail is NOT for sale! pic.twitter.com/cnSMU9zJRC
— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) March 6, 2025
Colorado AFL-CIO:
Thank you to US Congressional Reps @RepDianaDeGette & @pettersen4co for your vocal support for the #WorkerProtectionAct! 👏👏👏 #coleg @GovofCO @GovofCO
Your proud support for pro-worker policy will make a difference in helping working families get ahead, not just get by. pic.twitter.com/RTGuNiUPxg
— Colorado AFL-CIO ✊ (@AFLCIOCO) March 5, 2025
Connecticut AFL-CIO:
Progress may be slower than we like, but do not be deterred! As the federal judge wrote, "An American President is not a king". pic.twitter.com/SPBg2B692n
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) March 10, 2025
Illinois AFL-CIO:
We are deep in the legislative session. Legislation is moving in and out of committee and legislators are voting to advance bills that may eventually become law. Do you know how a bill becomes law? Check out this chart to learn more about the legislative process. pic.twitter.com/bbvaeIxOQu
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) March 9, 2025
Iowa Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:
Women have always had to fight twice as hard as men for less rights, less pay and less respect in the workplace. As we celebrate #WomensHistoryMonth let's recommit our fight for equality! pic.twitter.com/CqpYAMoan2
— Iowa AFL-CIO ✊ (@IowaAFLCIO) March 1, 2025
Kentucky State AFL-CIO:
Check us out! 💪 Thank you Governor Beshear for taking the time to speak with our UAW members at Working Families Lobby Day. https://t.co/AjmfU3xuLv
— Kentucky AFL-CIO (@aflcioky) March 8, 2025
Maine AFL-CIO:
Unconscionable. The Trump administration has ended collective bargaining rights for tens of thousands of Transportation Security Administration airport screeners, including hundreds of TSA workers in Maine. https://t.co/R8HHaS66Po
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) March 7, 2025
Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
Happy #InternationalWomensDay! We celebrate and honor all of the women who have fought for workers’ rights and work every day to make our movement stronger. pic.twitter.com/OnGud1TPOW
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) March 8, 2025
Michigan State AFL-CIO:
Unfortunately, there's no Schoolhouse Rock episode for when legislators hold bills hostage.
But we do know it's their job to send bills to the governor. And it's the governor's job to sign them.
Help us pass pro-worker legislation: https://t.co/HLCYuDtE8X pic.twitter.com/8xVFODUEMQ
— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) March 7, 2025
Minnesota AFL-CIO:
ALERT: The Minnesota House is taking up a bill to DELAY Paid Family & Medical Leave TODAY! Make sure your lawmakers know where you stand! #mnleg #PaidLeave https://t.co/Q1p9ugSE6x
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) March 10, 2025
Missouri AFL-CIO:
Why should billionaires have more rights and advantages than the #Workers who create their wealth? The AFL-CIO is stepping up to combat corruption and #UnionBusting with the reintroduction of the PRO Act! Read more here: https://t.co/4SBV0XZxTt
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) March 9, 2025
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
Our Executive Secretary-Treasurer Susie Martinez proudly testified in support of SB 182, a bill to improve patient safety and working conditions for healthcare workers!
SB 182 ensures safer nurse-to-patient ratios, saving lives and reducing long-term care costs. #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/MfpHcOgSCM
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) March 7, 2025
New Hampshire AFL-CIO:
Thank you for your #Solidarity @RepGoodlander! https://t.co/ouNOzLQLVk
— New Hampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) March 10, 2025
New Jersey State AFL-CIO:
New Mexico Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:
New York State AFL-CIO:
"The labor movement in this state and across this country will always fight to protect our public schools, we will always fight to protect our public education system, and we will always fight to protect our children." #ProtectOurKids pic.twitter.com/Mm8hI0oL6I
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) March 4, 2025
North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
North Carolina Republicans are Trying to Throw Out College Students’ Votes to Steal an Election https://t.co/FVZwcGC6m1 #ncpol #1u via @TeenVogue
— NC State AFL-CIO // #CountMeIn (@NCStateAFLCIO) February 28, 2025
North Dakota AFL-CIO:
Take action for ND Kids: Universal Free School Meals for All ND Students. Write your Rep. here: https://t.co/BYu7A9emvu
— North Dakota AFL-CIO (@NDAFLCIO) February 6, 2025
Ohio AFL-CIO:
This is what democracy looks like. There is no stronger force than worker #solidarity. We must not let Elon Musk and the billionaire class divide us while they conquer and raid our tax coffers https://t.co/B3k1sCw8Xq
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) March 5, 2025
Oregon AFL-CIO:
In 2024, Fred Meyer workers represented by @ufcw555 went on strike. Noah Aasen, a Fred Meyer worker, shared the struggle of exercising his right to strike as a worker while facing the reality of lost income.#ORPol #ORLeg #SB916 #OregonLabor #OregonAFLCIO pic.twitter.com/Y6xXjs60UO
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) March 10, 2025
Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
Last month employers announced plans to slash 172,017 jobs, a 103% increase from a year ago and the highest February total since 2009.
This isn’t putting workers first. This is leaving them behind.https://t.co/PqBcijS1fc
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) March 9, 2025
Texas AFL-CIO:
For Women’s History Month, we’re highlighting some of the trailblazing women who forged Texas labor!
This week: Becky Moeller, the first woman to be elected Texas AFL-CIO President 💪 pic.twitter.com/tFgffq7Y88
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) March 5, 2025
Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
Today we celebrate International Women’s Day. The World Economic Forum says it will take 5 generations to reach full gender parity.
Working women aren’t waiting until the year 2158. Solidarity with women around the world fighting for equality here and now. #AccelerateAction pic.twitter.com/VaI6yEOQt1
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) March 8, 2025
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
War heroes are among 26,000 images flagged for removal in Pentagon's DEI purge https://t.co/u7NEhFatvJ
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) March 9, 2025
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/10/2025 - 10:49Women's History Month Profiles: Jessica Timo
For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Jessica Timo of the Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU).
Jessica Timo has been a union member for 30 years. As purchasing manager at the United Federation of Teachers, and in her role as president of OPEIU Local 153, she works each and every day to strengthen the New York labor movement. “Women’s History Month is important because it recognizes and amplifies our contributions, many of which have been overlooked or undervalued,” Timo said. “This month provides an opportunity to educate, reflect and inspire future generations to continue advocating for equality in the workplace and beyond.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/10/2025 - 09:57Tags: Women's History Month
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: American Guild of Musical Artists and Cincinnati Opera Announce New Three-Year Agreement
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
The American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) and Cincinnati Opera announced a new three-year contract. The contract was ratified by the AGMA Board of Governors on March 3, after being approved by the members. The contract secures wage increases, better financial support for non-local artists, stronger workplace protections, new policies addressing artificial intelligence, data security, and bereavement leave, expands rights for chorus members, corps dancers, and principal artists, enhances conditions for staging staff, and ensures fairer policies across all working groups.
“These negotiations were a testament to the strength and solidarity of the artists of Cincinnati Opera,” said AGMA Counsel Martha Kinsella. “We advocated strongly for meaningful wage increases and achieved the best contractual raises in recent memory. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to our negotiation committee, which represented nearly all working groups, for their dedication, strategic thinking, and unwavering advocacy throughout this process. I also want to thank Cincinnati Opera’s management team, who bargained in good faith from start to finish, demonstrating their commitment to the artists who bring these productions to life.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/10/2025 - 09:48Women's History Month Profiles: Rina Saltzman
For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Rina Saltzman of the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).
As an officer in her local, Rina Saltzman’s job is to run the day-to-day operations and act as a lead negotiator for agreements with employers across the U.S. She is also a mentor to a student through the NYU Tisch Drama Women’s Mentorship Program. “ATPAM has had many women leaders over the years who have put their imprint on the union. Along with those that came before us, the current women in leadership positions throughout ATPAM and the IATSE inspire me every day.”
Kenneth Quinnell Sun, 03/09/2025 - 10:15Tags: Women's History Month
Women's History Month Profiles: Kanika Jones
For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Kanika Jones of AFSCME.
Kanika Jones, a case worker for Head Start, has dedicated her career to helping children thrive. As a single mother of three, she knows firsthand that access to education and proper nutrition is critical for a child’s long-term success. She lets her personal experiences guide her work every day, and as an active member of AFSCME Local 2960, she uses her seat at the table to advocate for more resources for parents and children across Phoenix.
Kenneth Quinnell Sat, 03/08/2025 - 10:15Tags: Women's History Month
AFL-CIO and Affiliates Celebrate Reintroduction of the PRO Act
AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler issued the following statement on the reintroduction of the Richard L. Trumka Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act:
Americans believe in the power of unions, and tens of millions of working people would become union members tomorrow if they could. But American labor law is broken, weighted on the side of the bosses and against the workers. In too many workplaces, in too many industries across the country, big corporations and billionaire CEOs still retaliate against us for organizing. They refuse to negotiate our contracts, force us to sit through hours of anti-union propaganda and engage in illegal union-busting every day. Now they have an unelected, unaccountable union-buster trying to illegally fire tens of thousands of our fellow workers in federal jobs and an administration rolling back the workplace protections.
Shuler continued:
The PRO Act is long overdue, and the American people agree. We urge the elected leaders of both parties to move this critical legislation forward so that all workers have the chance to stand together and build better lives for themselves and their families.
We know it won’t be easy, but the labor movement never backs down from a righteous fight. And in today’s economy, where our workers’ hard-earned paychecks are covering less of what they need while still facing unsafe conditions and a lack of respect on the job, there’s no fight more righteous than ensuring that every single worker who wants a union has a fair shot to join or form one.
Other pro-worker organizations weighed in on the legislation. Here are those who issued statements so far.
Actors’ Equity Association Executive Director Al Vincent Jr.:
Now, when workers’ rights in this country are under imminent threat, it is crucial that we finally pass the PRO Act. The National Labor Relations Act has shaped this country for the better for 90 years, and we have to shore it up. Passing the PRO Act will also send a message from Congress that they care about the wellbeing of American workers. That includes the right to organize, to receive a living wage and to combat misclassification.”
The PRO Act includes several measures that fight back against union-busting tactics by employers and strengthens the National Labor Relations Act. For example, it prohibits the practice of some employers holding mandatory anti-organizing meetings for their staff and allows workers to file civil complaints against employers for violating their NLRB rights. The bill strengthens protections for workers who go on strike, and overrides so-called right-to-work laws.
AFSCME President Lee Saunders:
Working people want to be paid fairly. They want benefits like health care, a fair retirement, to know their jobs are secure and that their workplaces are safe and free from discrimination. They know the best way to secure these freedoms is through a union contract. That is why poll after poll shows unions are more popular than ever. But joining or forming a union is exceedingly difficult for far too many. As billionaires and wealthy companies rake in record profits, they are seeking even more control over our lives, using any means necessary to silence workers. Their anti-union extremism is deepening economic inequality, halting progress on health and safety, and harming millions.
The PRO Act will loosen billionaires’ grip on our economic future and make clear that their days of using illegal union busting tactics without consequence are over. This legislation will level the playing field, giving workers the legal protections they need to organize without fear of retaliation or obstruction. It’s about time Congress prioritized workers over billionaires and gave them a fair shot at improving their workplaces.
Air Line Pilots Association, Int'l President Capt. Jason Ambrosi:
The right to organize has been fundamental in advancing safety and quality-of-life improvements for workers across the country. ALPA pilots know first-hand the benefits of union membership and advocacy, and we stand in solidarity with those fighting for the right to collectively bargain.
We urge Congress to pass the PRO Act, which will help promote an economy that works for all working families. All workers deserve fair opportunities to negotiate for better working conditions, wages, and a more secure retirement. The collective bargaining rights within the PRO Act are foundational for strong and vibrant communities and are vital for our nation's continued success.
Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) ATU International President John Costa:
As a Union that represents over 200,000 transit workers, we know firsthand the power of collective bargaining and the protection of workers’ rights to organize. The Pro Act would strengthen those rights, ensuring workers have the ability to stand together and demand fair wages, safe working conditions, and a voice in their workplace. Thank you to Representatives Robert C. “Bobby” Scott, Hakeem Jeffries, Brian Fitzpatrick and Senator Bernie Sanders for reintroducing this bill.
This legislation is a fitting tribute to the late Richard Trumka, a fierce advocate for working people, whose leadership and vision continue to inspire us. The ATU stands united with the labor movement in supporting the PRO Act and calls on Congress to pass this crucial legislation without delay. It is time to restore balance to the workforce and ensure that every worker has the right to organize and bargain collectively. We urge lawmakers to act swiftly to pass the PRO Act, honor the legacy of Richard Trumka, and secure a fairer, more just future for workers across this nation.
American Federation of Musicians International President Tino Gagliardi:
The PRO Act gives workers essential safeguards against anti-union attacks. The American Federation of Musicians of the US and Canada thank Reps. Scott and Fitzpatrick and Sen. Sanders for their leadership and recognition that all people have the right to join a union and negotiate for a fair contract.
American Federation of Teachers:
The PRO Act is about ensuring every worker has rights on the job and can form a union. It:
✊Protects workers’ basic rights to form & join a union
📢 Holds employers accountable for violating workers’ rights
📮Secures free, fair, & safe union elections https://t.co/usullxGiNK
— AFT (@AFTunion) March 5, 2025
Bricklayers:
The PRO Act was reintroduced into Congress today. Too many mega-corporations are crushing workers' rights on the job, taking advantage of lax labor laws and little enforcement. Congress needs to give the ability to organize back to the workers and pass the PRO Act! pic.twitter.com/BNTSuMc1uv
— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) March 5, 2025
Communications Workers of America:
We need the PRO Act so that all workers in America truly have the freedom to join together in unions to fight for more just and equitable workplaces ✊ https://t.co/icCJ2HDVGk
— CWA (@CWAUnion) March 5, 2025
International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers:
The PRO Act is the common sense, bipartisan legislation we need to fix our damaged system and empower American workers. https://t.co/WaqLInnqzy
— SMART Union (@smartunionworks) March 5, 2025
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) International President Kenneth W. Cooper:
On behalf of the 838,000 active members and retirees of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, I am proud to support the Richard L. Trumka Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act. This critical piece of legislation ensures workers have a genuine right to organize, negotiate fair wages, and secure better benefits without fear of retaliation.
For decades, corporate interests have chipped away at these rights, leading to a sharp decline in union membership and an equally steep rise in income inequality not seen since the Great Depression. Today, over 60 million workers want to join a union but face overwhelming obstacles because of outdated labor laws that prioritize the interests of employers.
The PRO Act addresses this imbalance, modernizing these laws by streamlining the union election process, imposing real penalties on companies that illegally fire or intimidate workers, and preventing employers from misclassifying workers in order to strip them of their rights.
International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers President Matthew Biggs:
The members and leaders of IFPTE are continuing to build support for the PRO Act in the 119th Congress. The historically high support for unions shows that workers recognize the power of joining together with their coworkers to make their workplaces better. Any Member of Congress who says they support working Americans should support the PRO Act’s strong legal protections that restore and reinforce working people’s right to freely form a union and bargain with their employers for fair wages, benefits, and working conditions. We thank Representative Brian Fitzpatrick and Representative Bobby Scott, and Senator Bernie Sanders for reintroducing the PRO Act.
The International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental, and Reinforcing Iron Workers stands in strong support of the introduction of the reintroduction of The Richard L. Trumka Protecting the Right To Organize (PRO) Act by Congressman Bobby Scott (D-VA) and Senator Josh Hawley's (R-MO) Faster Labor Contracts Act. These bipartisan efforts reflect a significant step toward empowering workers and ensuring timely negotiations between labor unions and employers.
The Faster Labor Contracts Act proposes a critical framework that mandates employers engage in negotiations within one week following a successful union election. This provision is essential for protecting workers' rights and ensuring they receive the fair and equitable treatment they deserve. We firmly believe that timely negotiations lead to better working conditions, fair wages, and enhanced job security for our members and all workers nationwide.
Furthermore, Congressman Scott's PRO Act builds upon this momentum by reinforcing the rights of workers to organize and collectively bargain. This legislation is a vital tool in ensuring that workers can advocate for their interests without fear of retaliation or obstruction. Our nation's labor force is the backbone of our economy, and it is imperative that we create a legislative environment that promotes fairness and dialogue. We applaud Senator Hawley and Congressman Scott for their commitment to advancing policies uplifting working men and women.
We encourage support for these bills, as they represent significant progress toward a more equitable American workforce.
Laborers (LIUNA) General President Brent Booker:
The right to freely join a union is the cornerstone of a prosperous working class in America. Fair pay, essential benefits, and a dignified retirement after a life of hard work are all qualities of the American Dream that have been chipped away as fewer workers are able to join unions.
Today, working men and women without a collective voice struggle with multiple jobs, wages that do not cover necessities, and a lack of healthcare and retirement security. At the same time, Gallup polling shows that workers overwhelmingly support unions.
Workers want—and America needs—more unions.
Read the full LIUNA statement.
Machinists (IAM) International President Brian Bryant:
I thank Senator Bernie Sanders and Congressmen Bobby Scott and Brian Fitzpatrick for leading this very important piece of bipartisan legislation. For far too long, American workers have been denied the right to freely form a union without the threat of company intimidation or interference, The Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act is long overdue legislation that grants our nation’s workforce the protections to form a union if they wish, while also including provisions to punish employers who break the law.
Painters and Allied Trades General President Jimmy Williams:
The @GoIUPAT thanks @BobbyScott, @RepBrianFitz, and @SenSanders as they reintroduce the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act in Congress.
— Jimmy Williams (@Jimmy_iupat) March 5, 2025
Williams continued:
We cannot allow the rights of workers to continue to erode. The PRO Act is necessary to protect the rights of working people to form and join unions.
Together with the introduction earlier this week of
Rep. Josh Hawley's (MO) “Faster Labor Contracts Act” it’s clear that there is strong support from all sides of the political spectrum for the labor law reform and protecting the rights of workers to organize.
Members of the IUPAT go to work every day and help build the American economy, and we will work with anyone serious about providing much needed reforms for the rights of working people to form and join unions.
We call on Congress to move quickly to pass these pieces of legislation and start the long awaited process of restoring basic rights to the working people who drive our economy.
Office and Professional Employees:
The #PROAct would strengthen workers' rights, hold employers accountable for breaking the law, and begin to level the playing field between working people and their bosses. #PassThePROActhttps://t.co/QOGZBcUfgf
— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) March 6, 2025
Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) International President Matthew D. Loeb:
Standing up for the right to organize and collectively bargain should not be a partisan issue. Entertainment workers know that time is of the essence when it comes to securing fair contracts. Whether it’s film, television, live events, or trade shows, our members move from job to job, and delays in bargaining can mean missing out on the industry standards and protections we fight for. The PRO Act remains our North Star in the fight for comprehensive labor law reform and we welcome bipartisan efforts that recognize the urgent need to level the playing field for workers.
Read the full IATSE statement.
Transport Workers Union (TWU) International President John Samuelsen:
It is time for Congress to step up and support workers. Republicans and Democrats alike talk a good game about supporting working people—signing onto the PRO Act and working to pass it into law shows which lawmakers will back up their words with action.”
The PRO Act is a significant legislative priority for the entire labor movement. The bill bans employer interference in union elections and would end mandatory anti-labor meetings during an organizing drive. It allows newly certified unions to seek binding arbitration and mediation when employers fail to negotiate a first contract in good faith. The bill eliminates so-called “right to work” laws and allow unions to collect dues that cover the cost of collective bargaining and administering a contract. And the PRO Act penalizes employers and corporate executives who violate workers’ rights.
UNITE HERE:
Organizing new workers must be the #1 priority of the labor movement — but American labor law is fundamentally broken — and tilted heavily in the boss's favor. That's why workers are out today to support the reintroduction of the PRO Act, which creates an equal playing field. pic.twitter.com/4kvQ1tvoYU
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) March 5, 2025
United Steelworkers (USW) International President David McCall:
Millions of American workers want to join unions, but they can’t, because corporations can intimidate and bully them with no meaningful consequences. Workers deserve to have a voice on the job without interference, and the PRO Act would protect that voice.
For decades, corporate CEOs and Wall Street investors have been taking home a bigger and bigger share of the economic pie while leaving workers with the crumbs. Unions are the best check on that growing inequality and the best path to the middle class for exploited workers.
Congress should quickly pass the PRO Act and the president should sign it.
Department for Professionals Employees President Jennifer Dorning:
Most professionals want to join a union and there has been an increase in workplace activism in recent years. However, federal labor law does not effectively protect professionals’ right to form a union and negotiate with their employer collectively in the private sector. The weak penalties employers are subject to when they break the law do not deter them from intimidating and retaliating against employees during union organizing campaigns and intentionally holding up first union contract negotiations. The PRO Act will improve federal labor law by creating real consequences for employers who break the law, making employer tactics that interfere with elections illegal, and facilitating productive negotiations to encourage quicker agreement on first union contracts.
Metal Trades Department, AFL-CIO, President Ed Jones:
For far too long, America’s workers have faced an uphill battle when fighting for fair wages, safe working conditions, and the fundamental right to organize without fear of intimidation or retaliation. The PRO Act represents the most significant labor law reform in decades, ensuring that workers can freely exercise their right to join a union and bargain collectively.
Arizona AFL-CIO President Jim McLaughlin:
Senator Kelly grew up in a union household and knows firsthand how unions can transform lives. They gave his family stability and opportunities, and he understands that strong unions are key to building a thriving middle class. That’s why he’s proud to cosponsor the PRO Act, which will make it easier for workers to join unions, negotiate fair wages, and strengthen the middle class for generations to come.
Maine AFL-CIO President Cynthia Phinney:
Labor unions are extremely popular with Americans because they know being part of a union is the most effective way to gain better wages, health insurance, retirement security and a dignified life. But for too long, anti-worker policies and bad legal decisions have made it too easy for employers to crack down on our rights and retaliate against working people forming unions because the penalties for breaking labor laws are just absorbed as a cost of doing business. The PRO Act would level the playing field and allow workers to freely choose to join a union and bargain for a better life. We applaud Congressman Jared Golden for his consistent support for this critical reform that will hold union-busting corporations accountable, repeal anti-worker laws, and remove barriers to organizing and bargaining.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 03/07/2025 - 12:00Invest In Critical Infrastructure: The Working People Weekly List
Every week, we bring you a roundup of the top news and commentary about issues and events important to working families. Here’s the latest edition of the Working People Weekly List.
'An American President Is Not a King': Judge Reinstates Labor Regulator Illegally Fired by Trump: “The president's attempt to fire Wilcox halted federal labor law enforcement in the United States. AFL-CIO president Liz Shuler celebrated Howell's ruling in a Thursday statement, saying that ‘more than a month after Trump effectively shut down the NLRB by illegally firing Gwynne Wilcox, denying it the quorum it needs to hold union-busters accountable, the court ordered Wilcox immediately returned to her seat, allowing the NLRB to get back to its essential work.’”
With Strong Union Support, Lawmakers Reintroduce PRO Act: “AFL-CIO President Shuler declared the time is politically right to pass the PRO Act. Organized labor’s popularity—a 70%-71% approval rating in the last two yearly Gallup polls, is at an all-time high. ‘Every other issue splits right down the middle,’ she noted. Though Shuler didn’t say so, the mass and illegal firings of federal workers—union and non-union—by Trump and his puppeteer, Elon Musk, have driven union membership up since Trump took over.”
Let’s Protect Connecticut’s Men and Women Who Keep the Lights On: “To keep all these services functioning, utilities must continually invest in the critical infrastructure to ensure those systems work. If you don’t invest in that infrastructure, over time, these systems break down because they are out in the elements, or they simply become old and outdated. Across Connecticut, members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) are doing this infrastructure maintenance daily to make sure the lights stay on.”
900 Northwell Hospital Nurses to Strike: “The union and hospital began negotiating a new contract in November, according to NYSNA. Union members voted to authorize a strike in February. In a statement shared with Becker's, the hospital said that management aims ‘to reach an agreement that continues to provide our valued nurses with competitive compensation, benefits and a safe, supportive working environment.’ The union contends that management has failed to agree to a fair labor deal that retains enough experienced nurses to provide safe patient care to patients.”
Two Unions Reach Agreement with MVHS; Workers to Get Raises: “The Mohawk Valley Health System has reached an agreement with two of its unions, officials announced. Service and maintenance workers represented by United Food and Commercial Workers, District Union Local One, and licensed practical nurses and technicians represented by Communications Workers of America, District One Local 1126 both voted Wednesday, Feb. 26 to ratify a memorandum of agreement.”
Corpus Christi Teachers, Union Supporters March for Public Education: “About two dozen members of local unions and community organizations gathered in front of Corpus Christi ISD's downtown administration building to draw attention to what they view as state and national threats to public education. The American Federation of Teachers held a ‘Protect Our Kids’ day of action Tuesday across the country. The Corpus Christi chapter of the teachers union organized the local event, joined by representatives from the Coastal Bend Labor Council, the local chapter of the NAACP, League of United Latin American Citizens, CHISPA League of Conservation Voters and For the Greater Good.”
Sherrod Brown: Democrats Must Become the Workers’ Party Again: “Since November 5, in the final months of the year, no one has had a lot of time for licking wounds. Seventy people in our office were suddenly out of work. My chief of staff and state director and I met with every member of our staff, working to find jobs for the public servants who had served Ohio, many for more than a decade. And we still had legislative work to do. We fought to finally get the Social Security Fairness Act through the Senate and signed into law. After more than 10 years of work, my penultimate vote in the United States Senate—after midnight, on my last night on the Senate floor—finally restored the full Social Security that more than three million American workers earned. Teachers and police officers and school cafeteria workers and bus drivers paid in over years of hard work. Now, they will finally get the retirement security they earned.”
Machinists Union Ratifies CSX Pact: “CSX announced on Monday that employees represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) have voted to ratify the five-year collective bargaining agreement. ‘IAM’s ratification is a testament to the strength of our partnership with union leadership,’ said Joe Hinrichs, president and chief executive of CSX, in a release. ‘This underscores our commitment to fostering a workplace where every employee feels valued and respected. Together, as ONE CSX, we will continue enhancing safety, efficiency, and service to secure sustained growth.’”
Alaska Air Flight Attendants Ratify Labor Contract: “Alaska Air flight attendants have ratified a new three-year labor contract, a union representing the workers said on Friday. The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, the union representing the attendants at the Seattle-based carrier, said that 95% of the votes cast supported the new agreement. The ratified agreement would provide attendants with pay increases ranging from 18.6% to 28.3%, boarding pay, 25 months of retroactive pay and two additional raises over the contract's duration, among other benefits, the union said.”
After More Than Four Years of Talks, NBC News’ Digital Editorial Staff Gets Tentative Contract Deal: “NBC News‘ digital editorial staff will be able to delay a recent round of staff cuts and will have new layoff protections under the terms of a long-awaited first contract deal, reached on Thursday. The provisional three-year pact, announced on Friday, offers union members advance notice of layoffs and preferential treatment for rehire and a minimum of eight weeks of severance if they are cut from the job. The deal was reached just weeks after NBC News laid off dozens of employees, including 20 workers covered by the union, after previous rounds of layoffs in 2023 and 2024.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 03/07/2025 - 10:32Women's History Month Profiles: Sara Cutler
For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Sara Cutler of the American Federation of Musicians (AFM).
Sara Cutler is an accomplished harpist who served on her union’s executive board for many years before being unanimously appointed as AFM Local 802 president in 2023 to serve out her predecessor’s term. In one busy year, she negotiated landmark agreements with the New York Philharmonic, the New York City Ballet and Broadway. “As a harpist in New York City, I’ve been fortunate in my career,” she said. “I believe I have an obligation to pass that good fortune on to a new generation of musicians and create a union equipped to serve them. This continues to be my personal mandate.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 03/07/2025 - 10:14Tags: Women's History Month
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Barnes & Noble Workers Ratify First Union Contracts at New York City Stores
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
The Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU) members who work at Barnes & Noble at three New York City locations ratified their first union contracts, covering more than 200 workers across the Union Square, Park Slope, and West 82nd Street locations. The three-year agreements include wage increases, healthcare coverage, and safety provisions.
"Workers at Barnes & Noble should be incredibly proud of what they've accomplished together in these historic first union contracts,” said RWDSU president Stuart Appelbaum. “United in their fight for increased safety in their stores, it was their voices among others across our union that won increased protections for everyone in the industry through the Retail Worker Safety Act."
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 03/07/2025 - 10:05Women in Construction Week: What Working People Are Doing This Week
Welcome to our regular feature, a look at what the various AFL-CIO unions and other working family organizations are doing across the country and beyond. The labor movement is big and active—here's a look at the broad range of activities we're engaged in this week.
Actors' Equity:
We are saddened to learn that former Equity stage manager councilor Frank Hartenstein has passed away. His career included serving 10 years on council and work on 29 Broadway productions, including the original A Chorus Line. He will be sorely missed.https://t.co/ds2wKwPvCs
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) March 5, 2025
AFGE:
This ruling by Judge Alsup is an important initial victory for patriotic Americans across this country who were illegally fired from their jobs by an agency (@USOPM) that had no authority to do so.https://t.co/wrYrOShczX
— AFGE (@AFGENational) February 28, 2025
AFSCME:
Federal budget cuts CANNOT be made without slashing Medicaid & Medicare. Millions of families will lose health care & it would devastate public services.
CALL NOW & tell your member of Congress: Save the vital programs we depend on. 📲 202-559-1165 https://t.co/2cBzx3zscm
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) March 6, 2025
Alliance for Retired Americans:
Elon Musk called Social Security a "Ponzi Scheme." He wants you to believe that we can't afford earned benefits.
But the truth is, we could actually expand benefits if wealthy people like him paid their fair share into the system. #ScrapTheCap pic.twitter.com/oiqRAd1NQW
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) March 6, 2025
Amalgamated Transit Union:
Our Local 587-Seattle WA, pushed the City Council to form this important task force on safety. #NotOneMore #1u #UnionStrong https://t.co/3KGYTO1BNv
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) March 6, 2025
American Federation of Musicians:
News of the Trump Administration’s misguided trade war must remind us of our values and our mission. All musicians have the right to live and work in dignity. At every level of governance, the American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada remains committed to… pic.twitter.com/Tbd0DpSUso
— AFM (@The_AFM) March 5, 2025
American Federation of Teachers:
The #FINNxHumbleHouse Future of Education Summit is today! @rweingarten and other speakers will discuss innovative ideas, solutions, and policies needed to advance the teaching profession and improve educational outcomes for all students. See you there #SXSWEdu! pic.twitter.com/HVQHfcfOMT
— AFT (@AFTunion) March 6, 2025
American Postal Workers Union:
✊✊Defend our public Postal Service!
Keep up the pressure - in light of recent threats, it's important to tell your legislators to defend our public postal service against any upcoming attacks. Send an email to your legislators right now!https://t.co/7YfqJ8DhBH
— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) February 27, 2025
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
“Safety & security doesn’t just happen. It is the product of our collective mission to make it happen. We encourage you to continue to look to the experts on the frontlines, promote sufficient & steady funding to staff, maintain, & modernize our workplace.”https://t.co/2qPu3i3bi4 pic.twitter.com/RgKD9X6vY8
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) March 4, 2025
Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers:
BCTGM Disappointed by President Trump’s Misguided #Tariffs on Canadahttps://t.co/yFQOj7yrfc
— BCTGM International (@BCTGM) March 6, 2025
Boilermakers:
Women in Construction Week is the perfect time to encourage your daughter, niece, grand-daughter or any woman in your life to consider a career in the trades. Here's what Linda Tribble, L-D194 has to say. https://t.co/dLmecTNPOy pic.twitter.com/kdBFXiHacr
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) March 5, 2025
Bricklayers:
“Before I joined, I was looking at $10 less than what I started as an apprentice with no benefits. Coming in as an apprentice, having medical, thats more than most other jobs. I dont have to worry about medical benefits for my kids.” - Priscilla Rocco of BAC Local 1 NY
#WIC2025 pic.twitter.com/yoEsmykYfj
— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) March 6, 2025
Communications Workers of America:
As House Republicans debate the future of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s $42B program to build high-speed internet & Musk seeks to divert public money for private profit, CWA defends program that would bring high-speed internet & jobs to all Americanshttps://t.co/cSzFQRqC3J
— CWA (@CWAUnion) March 6, 2025
Department for Professional Employees:
Happy Birthday @IAFFofficial! We are proud to have you as a DPE affiliate. https://t.co/amhKsE2Nvo
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) February 28, 2025
Electrical Workers:
"CT has immediate needs for infrastructure investment... We need a regulatory environment that protects customers and workers while allowing for continuous and long-term investments in the electric grid." - @IVPMikeMonahan https://t.co/cNgilhw9Py
— IBEW (@IBEW) March 5, 2025
Fire Fighters:
⏲️ #DaylightSaving is this weekend.
As we prepare to spring forward, take a moment to check your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
A small step that makes a big difference in keeping your community safe. pic.twitter.com/bICmpWrhcj
— International Association of Fire Fighters (@IAFFofficial) March 6, 2025
Heat and Frost Insulators:
Become a Union Member 💪
Whether you have experience working in the Insulation industry or are new to the trade — now is the time to earn a higher wage & better benefits.
➡️Learn more & become a member today: https://t.co/yjahHngRTW#InsulatorsUnion #Insulators #InsulatorPride… pic.twitter.com/QlXF7OlH6l
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) February 26, 2025
International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:
IFPTE stands in Solidarity with Postal Workers and denounces any efforts to privatize our Postal Service https://t.co/Os8dNlCb7t
— IFPTE (@IFPTE) February 22, 2025
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
LCLAA reaffirms its commitment to continue fighting to protect the rights of latino workers, their children, and their families against threats that undermine access to education #ProtectOurChildren #SavePublicEducation
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) March 5, 2025
Labor Heritage Foundation:
LABOR QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“I’m a big believer in unions! They have our backs, they bring us into community, and they give us power!”
Jane Fonda, at the 2025 SAG-AFTRA awards https://t.co/5TMvdEdqob pic.twitter.com/kfAlg1F44g
— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) March 3, 2025
Laborers:
121+ years strong & STILL fighting!
For over a century, #LIUNA has taken on worker exploitation, demanding fair wages, safety protections, & dignity on the job.
The job sites may have changed, but our mission never will – protecting the Laborers who build this nation.… pic.twitter.com/g5Ctf8qLDj
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) March 6, 2025
Machinists:
Safe staffing matters. Tasking workers with multiple conflicting duties can leave patients feeling abandoned. Not on our watch!
Our IAM Healthcare PCAs and PCTs at Ohio State University’s Wexner Medical Center are fighting for what's right. pic.twitter.com/ZMIFEL3pOC
— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) March 6, 2025
Marine Engineers' Beneficial Association:
150 years ago today, M.E.B.A. founding fathers formed the first national maritime organization to fight against the dangerous working conditions of the day. Today, M.E.B.A. members enjoy contracts with the best wages, benefits, and protections in the industry. Congratulations! pic.twitter.com/c4mQZP4gcd
— M.E.B.A. (@MEBAUNION) February 23, 2025
Metal Trades Department:
The big unknown still hanging over the plan is whether the Trump administration will thwart efforts that the Biden administration put in place to develop more clean electricity generation. https://t.co/MNnatY6FZa
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) March 6, 2025
Mine Workers:
The January/February issue of the journal proudly features Belinda Biafore as its Associate Membership Spotlight.
Belinda Biafore is an Associate Member and long-time supporter of the United Mine Workers. Sister Biafore is the former West Virginia...https://t.co/5tMbj1wAGI
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) February 27, 2025
Musical Artists:
AGMA Joins the Human Artistry Campaign to Advocate for the Rights of Artists in the Age of AI: https://t.co/c7MToluWjw @human_artistry pic.twitter.com/DfOcw6CSf6
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) February 26, 2025
National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
During his testimony today before @TransportGOP @TransportDems NATCA President Nick Daniels provided the union’s position on critical issues facing the aviation industry including controller staffing, safety, integration of new users, FAA reform, and modernization. pic.twitter.com/Nv2UnVOOox
— NATCA (@NATCA) March 4, 2025
National Association of Broadcast Employees and Technicians-CWA:
#protectpublictvandradio pic.twitter.com/J5A0mFGFgQ
— NABET-CWA (@NABETCWA) March 2, 2025
National Association of Letter Carriers:
📢 Calling all branches! On March 23, join NALC members nationwide to rally & say #HELLNO to dismantling USPS Contact your NBA’s office to get involved. Together, we’ll #FightLikeHell to protect our jobs, service & the future of USPS. More info ➡️ https://t.co/V560ijIosA pic.twitter.com/VbOOkNMUiZ
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) February 28, 2025
National Domestic Workers Alliance:
As our work has made America prosper. But a greedy few are risking Medicaid, HeadStart, and other critical programs to redirect resources from our communities into their pockets.
Stop putting billionaires’ profits over families’ care.
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) March 5, 2025
National Nurses United:
Nurses are sounding the alarm at @MissionHealthNC after a patient died in the ER during severe short-staffing. It's time our bosses put #PeopleOverProfit and fix the staffing crisis so nurses can provide the safe care every patient deserves. Enough is enough! pic.twitter.com/2EovpiHL7Z
— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) March 6, 2025
National Taxi Workers Alliance:
Congrats @workersjustice @LosDeliveristas who win against all odds. Gig economy uber-wealth is built on wage theft + poverty pay & cemented by forced arbitration preventing workers from their day in court. @NewYorkStateAG coming through has been the light in the darkness. https://t.co/dxkvyzdeBs
— NY Taxi Workers (@NYTWA) February 25, 2025
NFL Players Association:
Our Chief Strategy Officer, @JCTretter, joined the @RichEisenShow to talk about this year's team report cards, which shine a light on player issues so that we can continue raising the workplace standard across the NFL.
Watch it here: https://t.co/JDojkxIze5
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) March 5, 2025
North America's Building Trades Unions:
Women are reshaping the labor movement, driving growth and pushing for stronger protections in every industry. Their leadership is making unions more inclusive and powerful than ever. #WomenInConstructionWeekhttps://t.co/EvJxKGSziY pic.twitter.com/BnYTTilrfx
— The Building Trades (@NABTU) March 5, 2025
Office and Professional Employees:
Jessica Timo has been a union member for 30 years. As purchasing manager at the United Federation of Teachers, and in her role as president of OPEIU Local 153, she works each and every day to strengthen the New York labor movement. pic.twitter.com/LqG0w6fM3g
— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) March 3, 2025
Painters and Allied Trades:
During Women in Construction Week, Telemundo spotlighted one of our DC9 sisters, Evelyn, who talked about the challenges of being a woman in construction and the opportunities for growth for women in the trades. Hear more about it here: https://t.co/uMLDAOOiz7
— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) March 5, 2025
Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
Thank you @NTEUnews President Greenwald for inviting @PASSprezdc to speak at rally today. Neither the rain nor DOGE will keep federal unions from speaking out against the chaos being inflicted upon the dedicated public servants who work for the American people. #publicservice pic.twitter.com/gIFruWrSEh
— PASS (@PASSNational) March 5, 2025
Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
New Yorkers: #ShopUnion at bookstores unionized with @RWDSU & @UAW Local 2179! Together, we represent ~40% of locations of the major corporate & independent chain bookstores in NYC. With @BNWorkers ratifying their 1st contracts this week, it’s easier than ever to support unions! pic.twitter.com/VwNga94vYW
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) March 6, 2025
Roofers and Waterproofers:
What an incredible opportunity to connect, learn, and showcase the skills and dedication that define the United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers & Allied Workers.
A special shoutout to Local 11 and everyone else for stopping by our booth!#RoofingExpo#RoofersUnion#UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/4UTMiXBXeb
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) March 6, 2025
SAG-AFTRA:
Introducing Take 5. 🎬 When it's time to take a beat, tune into educational videos on key SAG-AFTRA topics. Stay informed about your union with this informative, engaging and empowering series. #Take5SagAftra
Check out the first video now! 👇 https://t.co/7jvxpiapSO
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) March 6, 2025
Seafarers:
Op-Ed: How the SHIPS for America Act can restore U.S. maritime leadership https://t.co/JHv4Zo9Epi
— Seafarers Union (@SeafarersUnion) March 4, 2025
Service Employees International Union (SEIU):
This triumph showcases the power of collective action in the fight for fair wages and safe working conditions. https://t.co/kJi9GuUFq6
— SEIU (@SEIU) March 6, 2025
Solidarity Center:
New way to stay in touch 🦋 ! pic.twitter.com/eW4SrLAuKG
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) March 6, 2025
Theatrical Stage Employees:
Encore’s Clients in San Diego pay up to $170/hr per worker, but the company starts workers at less than $18/hr!
It’s time for Encore to do the right thing. Years of training, expertise, and hard work are worth more! pic.twitter.com/HjgLi2Ux2H
— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) March 6, 2025
Transport Workers Union:
The TWU strongly backs the Faster Labor Contracts Act, requiring contract talks within 10 days of a union vote. "This new bill would eliminate a frequent anti-worker tactic used by the bosses and give workers more collective power to secure and improve their jobs." @TwuSamuelsen
— TWU (@transportworker) March 6, 2025
Transportation Trades Department:
It's time to reform U.S. labor law to protect the rights of workers to organize and collectively bargain for fair pay, better benefits and safe working conditions without fear or intimidation.
We support the PRO Act as a pathway to achieving these reforms. https://t.co/XFPIaTo4u6
— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) March 6, 2025
UAW:
Workers at the Volkswagen Parts Distribution Center in New Jersey know that there's strength in numbers. That's why they're coming together to demand a voice on the job and to join the 4,000 VW workers in Chattanooga who joined the UAW last year.
"There is a kind of fear in the… pic.twitter.com/ugLRbj8jwy
— UAW (@UAW) March 4, 2025
Union Veterans Council:
Thread 1/4: Union Veterans Council Condemns Trump Administration’s Betrayal of Veterans with Proposed VA Layoffs.
Washington, DC — The Union Veterans Council strongly condemns the Trump administration’s proposed layoffs of up to 80,000 VA employees—an outright betrayal! pic.twitter.com/YQxFVscnVD
— Union Veterans Council🪖✊ (@unionveterans) March 6, 2025
UNITE HERE:
Organizing new workers must be the #1 priority of the labor movement — but American labor law is fundamentally broken — and tilted heavily in the boss's favor. That's why workers are out today to support the reintroduction of the PRO Act, which creates an equal playing field. pic.twitter.com/4kvQ1tvoYU
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) March 5, 2025
United Food and Commercial Workers:
Nearly 100 @UFCWLocal152 members at Berks Foods have ratified a strong new contract!
The 3-year contract includes annual wage increases, a longevity bonus, affordable health benefits, improved vacation policies, & extended funeral leave.
➡️ https://t.co/ULa0ImD45B pic.twitter.com/Oq9LpoefeI
— UFCW (@UFCW) February 27, 2025
United Steelworkers:
🚨 The SAVE Act is a threat to workers—especially our Women of Steel siblings. 🚨
This Republican-backed bill would make voter registration harder because: pic.twitter.com/YCMnbjeuE2
— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) March 6, 2025
Utility Workers:
💪🏾💪🏼💪🏿💪🏻💪🏽 We are so excited to announce that Michigan-based Vesta Wind Technicians voted to join UWUA!
Read all about it: https://t.co/71VcLGZfty #ItsBetterInAUnion #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/5vhRgjl3Dk
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) March 6, 2025
Writers Guild of America East:
Solidarity with our @cbsdigitalunion members as we begin bargaining today. We're fighting for a strong first contract for workers at CBS' digital platforms including https://t.co/oRDQdzifLY, their social media and the CBS News app.
Fair contract here we come! 💪 #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/5047eRHIH1
— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) March 4, 2025
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 03/06/2025 - 12:34Women's History Month Profiles: Diana Valles
For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Diana Valles of UNITE HERE's Culinary Union.
Diana Valles is a proud immigrant who was born in Chihuahua, Mexico. In 1988, she moved to Las Vegas, where she has been a member of the Culinary Union for 36 years. She is passionate about continuing to mentor and develop leaders so that workers can organize and win a better standard of living for their families. Valles was elected president of the Culinary Union Local 226 in 2022.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 03/06/2025 - 10:11Tags: Women's History Month
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Gannett Journalists Win Tentative Two-Year Contract Deals
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
After three years of bargaining and a walkout pledge, journalists represented by The NewsGuild of New York, CWA Local 31003, at six of the largest Gannett-owned papers in New Jersey and New York have reached tentative agreements.
The APP-MCJ Guild and the Hudson Valley News Guild bargained separately but have been coordinating closely to secure victories for all the covered newsrooms. Wins include life-changing wage increases, strong salary floors, artificial intelligence guardrails, just cause provisions and more.
“This agreement is a testament to their strength, tenacity and solidarity and should serve as proof-positive for other Gannett newsrooms, who should stop asking nicely and start using their collective power to demand what they deserve,” said Asbury Park Press reporter Mike Davis, acting unit chair of the APP-MCJ Guild.
“We fought for Gannett to invest in our communities, and in us,” said Journal News reporter Nancy Cutler, acting unit chair of the Hudson Valley News Guild. “And we won.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 03/06/2025 - 10:02Women's History Month Profiles
For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country.
Here are the members we've featured so far:
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 03/05/2025 - 10:37Tags: Women's History Month
Women's History Month Profiles: Paige Cisco
For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Paige Cisco of the United Steelworkers (USW).
Paige Cisco, USW Local 689 member and active Woman of Steel, has worked at the Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant in Ohio for almost seven years and is a fierce activist for worker health and safety. As the full-time health and safety representative for her local and an active worker trainer for the USW Tony Mazzocchi Center, Cisco educates union members about health and safety every chance she gets.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 03/05/2025 - 10:27Tags: Women's History Month
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: University of California Workers Strike Over Management Intimidation
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Tens of thousands of University of California (UC) system health care and research workers who are members of AFSCME Local 3299 and University Professional and Technical Employees-CWA (UPTE-CWA) Local 9119 staged a multiday strike last week to protest the administration’s unfair labor practices.
Powerful, coordinated actions took place across all 10 UC campuses and five medical centers, as well as clinics and research laboratories. Both unions cite lack of meaningful movement on wage provisions as a major sticking point during ongoing negotiations with UC management. Research has shown that this share of the UC workforce that would be income eligible for limited government housing subsidies has nearly tripled since 2017. Instead of working toward a fair deal with AFSCME and UPTE-CWA, administrators have chosen to continue illegally restricting the freedom of members’ protected union activity, forcing nearly 60,000 staff to walk off the job.
“We all want to be in the center, taking care of patients, taking care of students, back in our research stations and we want to be doing that work. We don’t want to be out here,” said Michael Benaron, an UPTE-CWA member and physician assistant at UC Santa Barbara Student Health. “We just deserve the dignity of getting paid fairly well for the work that we do. The UC, it’s a world-class institution, and they should be paying world-class wages when we fight.”
“UC is attempting to silence our voices on the job — but we refuse to be silenced,” said Christopher Contreras, head custodian at UC Santa Cruz and a member of AFSCME. “Many of us work two or three jobs, seven days a week, while commuting up to two hours just to make ends meet. One job should be enough. It’s time for a change. We take care of UC. UC should take care of us.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 03/05/2025 - 09:53Tags: Strikes
Protect Our Kids: In the States Roundup
It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on X.
Alaska AFL-CIO:
On March 2nd, a full-page ad was placed in the ADN in which thousands of Alaskans showed their unwavering support for our state's federal employees.
Our delegation must fight against this ill-advised, indiscriminate, and illogical mass firing of federal employees. #akleg pic.twitter.com/OQwPescLky
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) March 4, 2025
California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
The @CaliforniaLabor movement stands in solidarity w/ educators, faculty, students, & community allies who are mobilizing all across the country to protect education funding + good union jobs!@CFTunion #MarchinMarch pic.twitter.com/sDo4X4an9r
— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) March 5, 2025
Colorado AFL-CIO:
KGNU Labor Exchange - The joy of organizing with Karli McClure & Nate Paer, SEIU 105 mental health workers; guest Host Ben Ullrich. Karli and Nate helped build the union at Mental Health Partners (now Clinica Family Health). 6:00 PM 88.5 FM or online https://t.co/9Uz9Ney6oX
— Colorado AFL-CIO ✊ (@AFLCIOCO) March 3, 2025
Connecticut AFL-CIO:
HAPPENING NOW: Members of the New Haven Federation of Teachers and their community partners are rallying to #ProtectOurKids, stand up for our schools & fight for our communities! @AFTunion pic.twitter.com/1vduurtwue
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) March 4, 2025
Florida AFL-CIO:
— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) February 26, 2025
Illinois AFL-CIO:
We’re kicking off #TradeswomenTakeOverSpringfield. Last night, volunteers came by the office to stuff packets and get ready for today. This morning, we are at the Department of Labor discussing how to recruit and retain more women in the trades. pic.twitter.com/k56m0XF2ED
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) March 5, 2025
Iowa Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:
Women have always had to fight twice as hard as men for less rights, less pay and less respect in the workplace. As we celebrate #WomensHistoryMonth let's recommit our fight for equality! pic.twitter.com/CqpYAMoan2
— Iowa AFL-CIO ✊ (@IowaAFLCIO) March 1, 2025
Kentucky State AFL-CIO:
HB 398 puts workers at risk and protects bad employers. Your voice matters. Stand up for workplace safety in Kentucky!
☎️ Call your legislator now and tell them to vote NO. Call the number in the graphic or click here to be put through: https://t.co/Sa99qV0d4C pic.twitter.com/flI1VDPjmT
— Kentucky AFL-CIO (@aflcioky) March 4, 2025
Maine AFL-CIO:
The impacted VA employees whom we’ve spoken to have served our country honorably and took great pride in their work supporting other veterans. These firings will hurt Maine veterans and undermine the services they rely on. https://t.co/yeOMV4PPxj
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) February 25, 2025
Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
Dropkick Murphys Union Night Fundraiser Benefitting the Steven A. Tolman Addiction Fund
$65 Dropkick Murphys Tickets
- Tickets Are Only Available to Union members and their guests
Get your tickets NOW at https://t.co/tA82dAM5td pic.twitter.com/wEPv6yQyES
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) March 3, 2025
Michigan State AFL-CIO:
STATEMENT: Trump’s Plan for America Puts Billionaires First and Workers Last
“Trump’s plan for America puts billionaires first, workers last – and it’s total bullshit,” said Ron BIEBER, President of the Michigan AFL-CIO.https://t.co/g3AxWQzMSn
— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) March 5, 2025
Minnesota AFL-CIO:
Among the protesters’ signs, one read, “DHS: Danger OSHA violators at work.” #BetterInAUnion @afscmemn5 https://t.co/iK0c85J4Eo
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) March 3, 2025
Missouri AFL-CIO:
Click here to read an interview with Ken Martin, new DNC chair and #Union member whose work is inspired by his #Union family and working-class upbringing! https://t.co/Avu4MmMWTR
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) March 2, 2025
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
Labor luncheon week #5 at the Nevada Legislature! 😋🍔🌭🌮🌯🥙🥗
TYSM to this weeks’ sponsors, Nevada Faculty Alliance & @uawregion6 ♥️🫶🏻 pic.twitter.com/zUCHeW2JdW
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) March 4, 2025
New York State AFL-CIO:
"The labor movement in this state and across this country will always fight to protect our public schools, we will always fight to protect our public education system, and we will always fight to protect our children." #ProtectOurKids pic.twitter.com/Mm8hI0oL6I
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) March 4, 2025
North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
North Carolina Republicans are Trying to Throw Out College Students’ Votes to Steal an Election https://t.co/FVZwcGC6m1 #ncpol #1u via @TeenVogue
— NC State AFL-CIO // #CountMeIn (@NCStateAFLCIO) February 28, 2025
Ohio AFL-CIO:
This is what democracy looks like. There is no stronger force than worker #solidarity. We must not let Elon Musk and the billionaire class divide us while they conquer and raid our tax coffers https://t.co/B3k1sCw8Xq
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) March 5, 2025
Oregon AFL-CIO:
Thank you Attorney General Dan Rayfield @ORDOJ and Labor Commissioner Christina Stephenson @bolistephenson for joining us for Oregon Lobby Day 2025! #ORpol #ORLeg #OregonLabor #ExtendUItoStrikers #OregonLaborLobbyDay pic.twitter.com/2SxWgfupTi
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) March 4, 2025
Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
All nine of Pennsylvania’s Republican congressmen voted to cut Medicaid—putting 800,000 Pennsylvanians at risk. We won’t stand by while working families lose coverage.https://t.co/JJY4ONfPEG
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) March 1, 2025
Tennessee AFL-CIO Labor Council:
This is an annual scholarship that is awarded to high school graduates between the ages of 17-21 who are entering their first year at a state-accredited college/university with the objective of obtaining a minimum of a 2-year degree. Apply here - https://t.co/4YcDKlD2Ub pic.twitter.com/bhS66iLMdg
— Tennessee AFL-CIO (@tnaflcio) February 27, 2025
Texas AFL-CIO:
As someone who worked on a large-scale construction project with a PLA, our Secretary-Treasurer @AguilarLeonard knows that PLAs are essential to keeping workers safe and ensuring projects are completed on time.
That's why we're urging Texas Senators to vote NO on #SB925. #txlege pic.twitter.com/MbRQgx3oP0
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) March 4, 2025
Virginia AFL-CIO:
Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
Washington is a wealthy state- our government should make life easier for working families, not cut childcare and other services that we depend on.
Tell your legislators- no cuts to essential services! Make the ultra wealthy pay their fair share in taxes, just like the rest of us pic.twitter.com/RCiULXM9nh
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) March 4, 2025
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Important Election Update for April 1 election https://t.co/ZBUuy8ajJk
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) March 4, 2025
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 03/05/2025 - 01:31
